Hackberry and Celtis laevigata are two tree species that can easily be confused due to their interchangeable appearances , especially in regions where their ranges overlap . However , there are some central differences that can serve severalize between the two .
1 . Leaf Characteristics : – hackberry ( Celtis laevigata ): The leafage of hackberry are narrower compared to hackberry , with mostly smooth margins . They have a pointed tip and a slimly crooked groundwork . The surface of the leafage is typically smooth and shiny , which gives it a showy appearance . – Hackberry ( Celtis occidentalis ): Hackberry leaves are encompassing and more ovate in shape equate to sugarberry . The margins of the leaf are often serrated , giving them a toothed appearance . The leaves have a rougher grain compare to sugarberry .
2 . Berry Characteristics : – Sugarberry : As the name advise , sugarberry produces odorous and blue berries . These berries are typically dark purple to black and have a thin hide . They are a favorite food source for skirt and other wildlife . – sugarberry : Hackberry also acquire berry , but they are generally small and not as sweet-smelling or juicy as Celtis laevigata . The berry of nettle tree are usually orange to red and have a thicker skin . While bird may still eat them , they are not as preferred as sugarberry Berry .
3 . Bark Characteristics : – Sugarberry : The bark of Celtis laevigata is in the main smooth and greyish - Robert Brown in color . It is less corked or rough compare to hackberry . The smooth barque gives the tree a sleek appearance . – Hackberry : Hackberry has a distinctive corked bark with warty protrusions , especially on old trees . The barque is uncut and grayish - brown , giving it a more textured and rugged look compared to sugarberry .
4 . Habitat and Range : – Sugarberry : Sugarberry is typically found in damp home ground such as floodplain , riverbank , and bottomlands . It is aboriginal to the southeasterly United States and can also be found in part of Texas , Oklahoma , and Mexico . – sugarberry : Hackberry is more adaptable and can be found in a wider range of home ground , include woodlands , field of operation , and disturbed area . It has a broader reach , gallop across most of the United States , except for the western State Department .
5 . Other reflection : – Sugarberry : Celtis laevigata trees are known for their allowance to implosion therapy and are often planted in wetland restoration projects . They have a more refined and refined appearance compared to hackberry . – sugarberry : sugarberry tree diagram are screw for their hardiness and ability to withstand harsh conditions . They are often used as shade trees and are appraise for their wildlife benefit , as the berries provide food for birds and small mammals .
In my own experience , I have total across both nettle tree and sugarberry Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree while working on landscaping projection . The difference of opinion in folio shape , berry characteristics , and barque texture have help me signalise between the two species . to boot , note the habitat and range of each tree has also been helpful in confirming their identities .
Caroline Bates
